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Back in 2006, I traveled to Canberra for an interview at a medical college. I figured to book accommodation when I arrived, however when I arrived, a major event was taking place and all the budget hostels and cheap hotels were fully booked.

Hailing from the city-state of Singapore, the idea crossed my mind the possibility of spend the night at the airport – only to discover Canberra airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, does not operate around the clock. With no idea quite what to do and getting a bit desperate, I hopped on a bus into town and found myself drifting towards the casino, reasoning it was a place to spend the evening in a place that stayed open through the night. That wouldn’t put me in the best shape for nailing a crucial interview the next day, yet, as a cash-strapped student, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

We could all use more folks with such compassion.

I must have looked lost as a young woman saw me walking aimlessly through downtown and asked if everything was alright. I shared my predicament and right away she suggested I could crash on the ground of her dormitory at the local university – an ideal turn of events, as that’s where my medical school interview would take place the next morning. She even offered some food: one stuffed baguettes she had from her work shift. I was able to use the bathroom and a protected spot and secure to spend the night.

In retrospect, I now understand what a big chance she took being a woman inviting a guy she had only just encountered sleep on her floor. In those days I existed within my own unawareness and did not consider about things like that. As a dad now, I am astonished she took that chance – but still incredibly thankful.

I never did go to the Australian National University, and I lost touch with that kind stranger again, but her act remains etched in my mind that incredible gesture of human compassion. My sincere desire is that karma has rewarded her good deed tenfold. Our society requires more folks like that woman.